Staging Flashcards
Define the term dual setting
The Johnstone’s home is described as “a terrace of two up, two down houses” (Act 1), while the Lyons’ home is a “large, comfortable house” (Act 1). This contrast should be visually represented on stage to show the difference in their living conditions.
Define the term versatile spaces
Various scenes take place in different locations, such as the street where Mickey and Edward meet (Act 1, Scene 6), the school (Act 1, Scene 7), and the countryside (Act 2, Scene 2). Use adaptable set pieces to switch between these settings smoothly.
Define the term symbolic elements
Superstitions are mentioned throughout, such as “shoes upon the table” (Act 1, Scene 2). Incorporating visual symbols like these can enhance the thematic elements of the play.
Define the term mood setting
The Narrator often sets the mood, such as in “the devil’s got your number” (Act 1, Scene 5), which should be matched with darker, more ominous lighting to create a sense of foreboding.
Define the term spotlight
Use spotlights during key moments to emphasise important themes and lines, like when the Narrator says “there’s a pact been sealed” (Act 1, Scene 2).
Define the term transitions
Smooth lighting transitions can indicate the passage of time, guided by lines like “the years roll by” (Act 2, Scene 1).
Define the term reflecting social class
Use costumes to show the difference in wealth and status between characters. The Johnstones wear simple, worn clothes, while the Lyons wear more stylish, refined outfits, as highlighted by Mrs. Lyons saying, “you are not like them” (Act 1, Scene 8).
Define the term era-appropriate
The play spans several decades, so costumes should reflect changing fashions. For example, Mickey’s casual 1960s clothes versus Edward’s neat school uniforms and later more sophisticated attire
Define the term character development
Change costumes and makeup over time to show how characters grow and change. Mickey’s appearance becomes more rugged in Act 2 to reflect his struggles, while Edward’s attire becomes more refined.
Define the term character posture
How a character stands or sits can reflect their personality and social status. Mickey might have a slouched, casual posture, while Edward stands upright and formal.
Define the term movement
Characters’ movements should express their background and emotions. Mickey’s movements might be relaxed and sometimes erratic, reflecting his working-class background, as seen when he says, “Gis a sweet” (Act 1, Scene 4).
Define the term voice
The way characters speak, including accents and tone, should show their social class and personality. Mickey’s voice could be rough and colloquial, while Edward’s is refined and articulate, as illustrated by Edward’s polite speech, “Are you feeling better now, Mummy?” (Act 1, Scene 4).
Define the term emotional expression
Use facial expressions to show characters’ feelings. Mickey often shows frustration and struggle, while Edward’s expressions are more naive and content, such as Mickey’s anger in Act 2, Scene 5, when he confronts Edward.
Define the term Subtle Nuances
Small changes in facial expressions can indicate deeper feelings or tensions. For example, Mrs. Lyons’ growing paranoia and fear when she says, “you are not like them” (Act 1, Scene 8).
Define the term everyday objects
Use props like “sweets” and “ciggies” (Act 1, Scene 4) for Mickey and Edward’s childhood, and factory equipment in Act 2, Scene 4, to ground the characters in their respective worlds.
Define the term significant items
The toy gun in Act 1, Scene 4, and later real weapons in Act 2, Scene 5, symbolise the escalating violence and tension.
Define the term functioning props
Items like Edward’s school books or Mickey’s work tools help to differentiate their environments and experiences.
Define the term narrators songs
Songs like “Shoes Upon the Table” (Act 1, Scene 2) should be clear and impactful to set the tone and emphasise the themes of superstition.
Define the term background music
Use period-specific music to enhance scenes and establish the time period, such as the upbeat music when Mickey and Edward first meet (Act 1, Scene 4).
Define the term sound effects
Use sound effects like gunshots in the final scene (Act 2, Scene 5), factory noises in Act 2, Scene 4, and street sounds throughout the play to create a realistic and immersive environment.
Define the term character interactions
The way Mickey and Edward play together (Act 1, Scene 4) versus their adult interactions (Act 2, Scene 4) should reflect their evolving relationship. Blocking refers to how actors are positioned and move on stage.
Define the term dynamic staging
Keep the stage lively and interesting by planning where actors move, especially during high-energy scenes like when Mickey and Edward play as children (Act 1, Scene 4).
Define the term children vs adults
Ensure the actors physically convey the transition from childhood (“we were born on the same day” Act 1, Scene 4) to adulthood (Act 2, Scene 5) through their movements and interactions.
Define the term flow of the story
Maintain a good pace throughout the play, especially during key transitions like “the years roll by” (Act 2, Scene 1), to keep the audience engaged and convey the passage of time.
Define the term emotional beats
Allow significant moments to resonate, such as Mickey’s breakdown in the final scene (Act 2, Scene 5), to maximise the emotional impac
Define the term scenes with children
Combine costumes, movement, and expressions to reflect characters’ ages and situations. For example, when Mickey and Edward are children, their school uniforms (for Edward) and casual clothes (for Mickey), playful movements, and innocent facial expressions show their carefree nature, as in Act 1, Scene 4.
Define the term dramatic moments
Use stage positioning, lighting, sound, and acting to enhance intense scenes. For example, in the final confrontation (Act 2, Scene 5), place Mickey and Edward facing each other with a distance between them to show tension. Use dramatic lighting and tense music to heighten the drama.
